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NFC South evening update

By Pat Yasinskas | September 19, 2012 6:43:27 PM PDT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Time for a look at the Wednesday afternoon headlines from around the NFL.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

Let’s start this one off with a fantasy-football alert. Carolina running back Jonathan Stewart could miss Thursday night’s game due to a toe injury. Stewart hasn’t practiced all week. If he can’t play, expect more carries for DeAngelo Williams and fullback Mike Tolbert also could get some time at tailback.

The Panthers may be catching a bit of a break because the Giants are banged up. The Giants said running back Ahmad Bradshaw, receiver Domenik Hixon and tackle David Diehl will not play in Thursday night’s game due to injuries. Andre Brown is expected to take over most of Bradshaw’s duties.

ATLANTA FALCONS

Running back Michael Turner apologized to ownership, coaches and fans for being charged with DUI. Turner said he expects to play Sunday against the Chargers, the team he began his career with. Turner could face discipline at some point, but I think that’s down the road, after his case moves through the legal system.

Coach Mike Smith is pleased with what he’s seen from left tackle Sam Baker so far this season. While fans were spending the offseason screaming for Baker to be released, the Falcons stood by him, saying they believe he’s a competent player when healthy. So far, he’s been healthy, so maybe the Falcons knew what they were talking about.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

The Saints are saying all the right things about their 0-2 start. They realize they’ve dug a hole, but keep pointing to how this team has dealt with adversity well in the past. That’s true. But if the Saints don’t win Sunday against Kansas City, this season could be over in a hurry.

You probably saw Drew Brees limping around a bit after hurting his ankle Sunday against Carolina. The Saints listed Brees on the injury report Wednesday, but the good news is it doesn’t sound like anything to worry about. Brees participated fully in Wednesday’s practice.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

The Giants continue to gripe about the Bucs going all out when they were in the victory formation Sunday. The Giants have every right to voice their opinions on this, but they might be wise to move on from this. They’ve got another game coming up in just over 24 hours.

A lot of people thought the Bucs signed receiver Jordan Shipley because they were concerned about an injury to Preston Parker. As it turned out, they’re more concerned about a foot injury to receiver Sammie Stroughter. Coach Greg Schiano said Stroughter’s injury could be "long term." Parker practiced fully Wednesday.